Learned at the puppy’s knee

Lola, the world’s most perfect puppy (my column, my rules), is celebrating her first birthday. Well, we’re calling this her first birthday since, as with almost every shelter graduate, the day of her actual birth — along with other early details — is only a guess. But since she came into the shelter at only a few days old, in her case the guess is likely close. Regular readers (thank you!) may recall that she was one of six, a litter born in a carefully selected but unusual setting: a cave formed by a pile of utility poles at an East Palo Alto PG&E substation. PHS/SPCA staff rescued the pups, eyes still closed, hamster-sized, and finally coaxed a frightened Chihuahua mother into their arms a few days later. She gladly took her babies back from the human foster parents, was a wonderful mom, and now all are happy with their own families in their own homes.

While Lola has learned several key lessons in her first year (don’t pee inside the house, the puppy in the full length mirror will not chase you no matter what, wasps are not our friend), she’s also proven to be an excellent teacher. Laugh if you want, but I’m serious. Here, then, are lessons learned at the puppy’s knee.